Anger Management 101

We all get angry from time to time. Even mental health professionals get angry. Most professionals have been trained in some sort of anger management technique.

I am sure that you have had many clients who have issues with anger management and come to you seeking help. Many people have issues with anger management and expect counselors and psychotherapist to help them solve their problems.

Sure, there is the basic anger management technique training program. This includes but is not limited to the following:

Count to Ten

Express Yourself / Talk It Out

Forgive and Forget

Exercise

Use "I" Statements

Relaxation Techniques

While these are wonderful ways to help people deal with anger they often scratch the surface and ignore how deep the anger is within the person.

I find counting to ten does not work for myself, or my clients. I don't even suggest it to them anymore. I feel silly even saying, "Try counting to ten."

Often, when we talk it out we get even more frustrated. When we try to express ourselves to the other person we are angry at they get angry and the situation may get worse.

"I" statements work sometimes, but often sound "staged". I try to avoid them unless I have to set a strong boundary with someone.

Exercise is wonderful and it is a great way to reduce stress. We should be doing this every day, especially when we are angry.

Relaxation techniques are soothing to the brain stem (reptilian brain) and should also be used in conjunction with exercise.

So how does one get "creative" with anger management techniques to truly help our clients?

Disclaimer: This website and its content is intended for trained licensed mental health professionals and school certified mental health professionals to use for their clients / students at their own discretion.

*If you ignore the disclaimer above are using these techniques on yourself and you feel any discomfort or upset it is highly suggested that you seek out a licensed mental health professional immediately.

For any other type of mental health emergency call your local 911 / Police Number immediately.

Dr. Stangline does not offer advice / suggestions to anyone who is not a professional mental health provider, or a student who is studying this field and has questions about mental health programs of study.

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